The Netflix thriller, Straw by American actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry, thrusts Taraji P. Henson into a harrowing role as Janiyah Wiltkinson, a single mother pushed to the brink by systemic hardship and personal crisis.
Critics lauded her emotional depth and raw authenticity, though some took Perry’s melodrama to task; the consensus remains clear: Henson is commanding, nuanced, and unforgettable.
If Straw struck a chord, these six standout performances offer even more reasons to celebrate Henson’s extraordinary range:
1. Hidden Figures (2016)
Why watch? As NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, Henson brings intellect and grace to a role spotlighting unsung Black women of the Space Race. The film became a global hit, earning critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nods.
2. Empire (2015–2020)
Why watch? Cookie Lyon—Henson’s bold, ferocious, and heartbreaking complex character—became one of TV’s most iconic figures. Her powerhouse performance earned her Critics’ Choice and SAG accolades, solidifying her status as a television titan.
3. No Good Deed (2014)
Why watch? In this high‑tension thriller, Henson stars opposite Idris Elba as a woman battling for survival in her own home. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a box‑office winner, with Henson earning an Image Award nomination for her gripping portrayal .
4. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Why watch? Henson shines as Queenie, the loving guardian of the aging‑backwards title character. Her performance provides the emotional heart in David Fincher’s epic, showcasing her capacity to convey warmth and subtle strength.
5. Hustle & Flow (2005)
Why watch? As Shug, a sex worker and muse in this gritty, Oscar‑winning drama, Henson delivers a raw, transformative performance that earned her Academy Award attention and revealed the emotional depths she can plumb.
6. The Best of Enemies (2019)
Why watch? Henson portrays Ann Atwater, a fierce civil rights advocate, opposite Sam Rockwell. The film explores themes of race and reconciliation in the Deep South, anchored by Henson’s commanding, empathetic presence.
Why These Roles Matter
Spectral range: From historical drama to blockbuster sci‑fi and psychological thrillers, Henson navigates genres with ease.
Emotional resonance: She carries every story—whether sci‑fi, crime, or biopic—with authenticity and soul.
Cultural impact: Each role amplifies stories that matter—from the unrecognized brilliance of Black women to the systemic challenges they face.
Your Next Watchlist
| Title | Genre | Standout Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Figures | Historical Drama | Intelligence & dignity |
| Empire | Musical Drama | Bold, unforgettable |
| No Good Deed | Thriller | Raw tension & fear |
| Benjamin Button | Fantasy Drama | Tender, supportive presence |
| Hustle & Flow | Musical/Drama | Edgy, emotionally charged |
| The Best of Enemies | Historical Drama | Fiercely principled |
